‎CNG BUS EXPLODES IN LAGOS: 17 RESCUED , ONE INJURED

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority , LASTMA, has rescued 17 passengers after a Compressed Natural Gas, CNG-powered commercial bus burst into flames at Berger Bus Stop on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, 11th November, involved a fully loaded Hiace bus with passengers and registration number EKY 798 YK travelling from the Mowe-Ibafo axis towards Lagos state.

LASTMA said its rescue personnel swiftly mobilized to the scene and rescued 17 occupants, including the driver, without injuries.

According to LASTMA, the vehicle had 18 occupants, including the driver, when it reportedly caught fire following a gas explosion, causing panic among passengers and other motorists on the express way.

However, a male passenger seated at the rear of the bus sustained severe burn injuries in the incident. He was immediately evacuated by LASTMA officers and taken to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre, Toll Gate, for proper medical treatment.

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service afterwards deployed personnel and equipment to put out the fire and prevent it from spreading.

Personnel of the Ojodu Police Division also secured the scene and maintained law and order during the rescue and firefighting operations.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, commended the agency’s officers , the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Nigeria Police Force for their support and prompt intervention during the rescue operation.

Bakare-Oki said the incident highlighted the importance of rapid emergency response and effective collaboration among agencies in preventing loss of lives during road emergencies and accidents.

He urged commercial transport operators, particularly those using CNG-powered vehicles, to ensure regular professional inspection and maintenance of vehicle, especially of gas storage and delivery systems.

The LASTMA boss reiterated the agency's commitment to protecting lives, ensuring smooth traffic movement and strengthening collaboration with emergency response agencies across Lagos State.